What environmental consideration is necessary when applying pesticides near water bodies?

When applying pesticides near water bodies, it's crucial to avoid runoff and adhere to buffer zone requirements. The reason this is the correct choice lies in the potential risks associated with pesticide contamination of water sources. Pesticides can easily wash into nearby streams, rivers, or lakes through runoff, especially during rain or irrigation events. Such contamination can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and pose risks to human health via drinking water sources.

Buffer zones, which are designated areas left untreated between the application site and the water body, serve as a critical barrier. These zones help to minimize the likelihood of pesticide movement into water systems and provide habitats for wildlife. Therefore, maintaining these buffer zones and ensuring that the application is done in a way that prevents runoff are essential practices for protecting the environment, particularly aquatic ecosystems.

The other choices do not directly address the key concerns of pesticide application near water. While avoiding soil tillage can be part of good agricultural practices, it is not specifically related to protecting water bodies. The use of organic pesticides alone might not be sufficient to prevent pollution if proper application practices are not followed. Furthermore, applying pesticides during storms increases the risk of runoff and contamination, which contradicts the goals of responsible pesticide management near aquatic environments.